The 2025-26 NHL season for the Nashville Predators is shaping up to include some exciting matchups. The Predators will kick off their season on October 9 at home against the Columbus Blue Jackets, setting the stage for a competitive year.

Following their opener, Nashville will embark on a challenging Canadian road trip where they'll face the Ottawa Senators, Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, and Winnipeg Jets. A notable highlight of the season will be their participation in the NHL Global Series, where they'll take on the Pittsburgh Penguins in Stockholm, Sweden, in mid-November.

December will see the Predators face off against the defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers, while a pause for the Olympic Winter Games in February will include representation from players like Roman Josi and Juuse Saros. The regular season will wrap up on April 16 against the Anaheim Ducks, culminating in a home stretch that could have significant playoff implications.

The Nashville Predators are gearing up for the 2025-26 season with a revamped defensive lineup featuring new acquisitions Nicolas Hague and Nick Perbix. General Manager Barry Trotz has prioritized strengthening the defense after last season's struggles, including injuries to key players like Roman Josi and trades that left half the defense in flux.

Hague, 26, and Perbix, 27, both stand over 6-foot-4 and are regarded as defensive specialists. They are expected to take significant roles, with Hague likely pairing with Josi on the top line. Trotz aims to establish a more robust and youthful defense to avoid the issues faced last season.

Nicolas Hague's transition from the Vegas Golden Knights to the Nashville Predators has sparked optimism within him, despite the Predators' disappointing season. After spending six seasons in Vegas, including a Stanley Cup victory, Hague believes Nashville's last year's record is misleading, viewing it as a temporary setback.

During his introductory press conference, he expressed excitement about bringing his championship experience to the Predators, aiming to guide teammates through the rigors of playoff intensity. Hague is open to playing alongside established talents like Roman Josi and Brady Skjei, emphasizing his adaptability on the ice. His history with Jonathan Marchessault, a fellow former Golden Knight, further enhances his enthusiasm for forging connections within his new team.

Roman Josi, the Nashville Predators' captain, is making a significant recovery from Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), which hindered his ability to play during the last season. General Manager Barry Trotz confirmed that Josi, who recorded 38 points in 53 games before his injury, is expected to fully participate in the upcoming training camp and season starting this fall. The 35-year-old defenseman has been proactive in managing his condition, which is characterized by an abnormal increase in heart rate upon standing, often leading to dizziness and fatigue.

Josi's resilience has not only kept him in the game mentally but also positioned him for a potential Olympic appearance in 2026 with Team Switzerland. Having previously clinched the Norris Trophy, Josi's career stats stand impressive with 724 points across 962 regular-season games. With his health improving, Josi remains a cornerstone for the Predators as they look to bounce back after a missed playoff opportunity last season.

The New York Rangers have officially re-signed Matt Rempe, a forward known for his physical play, to a two-year contract worth $975,000 against the salary cap. The 22-year-old winger contributed three goals and five assists over 42 games last season, showcasing his potential as a fourth-line player. Meanwhile, the Chicago Blackhawks have secured Ryan Donato for four years at a $4 million cap hit. Donato's performance last season solidified his role in the middle six, as he demonstrated a powerful shot, though concerns remain about his shooting percentage sustainability.

In injury news, Florida Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk revealed he suffered a torn adductor muscle and a sports hernia during the Four Nations Face-off in February. Despite these setbacks, Tkachuk was able to produce significantly during the playoffs. In Nashville, Predators GM Barry Trotz announced that defenseman Roman Josi was diagnosed with Postural Tachycardia Syndrome but is expected to be fit for training camp next season.

In other developments, the New Jersey Devils traded Erik Haula to the Nashville Predators for a fourth-round pick and defensive prospect Jeremy Hanzel, while Nick Bonino announced his retirement after a 15-season career, transitioning to an assistant coaching role with the Pittsburgh Penguins.